Output apparatus and output method

ABSTRACT

An output apparatus which produces the print output by saving in a first memory print data input via a two-way interface, and converting the print data into the print out information, comprising a second memory different from the first memory for saving the print data with a print ID number added which is input via the interface, a retrieving unit for retrieving corresponding print data of the second memory based on a print ID number input from the outside, and an output unit for outputting the retrieved print data converted into the print out information.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] 1. Field of the Invention

[0002] The present invention relates to an output apparatus such as aprinter which is connected via a two-way interface to an informationequipment and an output method for use in said apparatus, and moreparticularly to an output apparatus for use in a field referred to as amultimedia, and an output method for use in said apparatus.

[0003] 2. Related Background Art

[0004] Conventionally, in the recording apparatuses typically called aprinter, by receiving a video signal or recording signal, a recordingunit within a recording apparatus forms or records the image informationon the recording medium, based on the recording signal or video signal.

[0005] For example, a video printer can record on the recording mediumin such a way as to get one frame of moving picture or still picturedisplayed on the display or television screen as a video signal into aprinter main unit and converting the video signal into a recordingsignal. Also, an output printer such as a computer or an electroniccalculator can record on the recording medium in such a way as to getthe information from the computer or electronic calculator as arecording signal into a printer main unit.

[0006] However, the conventional recording apparatuses as abovementioned, aiming to output the image information created by themselvesor precreated image information directly and accurately, had a problemthat the linkage or combination of recording signal and audio signal orvideo signal might be delayed under the so-called multimedia environmentwhere all the information is integrated.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] In the light of the above-mentioned problem, it is an object ofthe present invention to provide an output apparatus of recording signaland an output method in said apparatus, which is capable of implementingthe linkage or combination of the recording signal and the audio signalor video signal by allowing the recording signal and the audio signal orvideo signal to be dealt with independently without confusion even ifdata is provided in a media having the recording signal and the audiosignal or video signal mixed.

[0008] To accomplish the above object, there is provided an outputapparatus according to the invention which saves in first memory meansprint data which is input via a two-way interface, and converts saidprint data into the print out information to produce the print output,comprising second memory means which is different from said first memorymeans for memorizing said print data which is input via said interface,with a print ID number added, retrieving means for retrievingcorresponding print data of said second memory means, based on a printID number which is input from the outside, and output means foroutputting said retrieved print data which is converted into the printout information.

[0009] To accomplish the above object, there is provided an outputmethod of the output apparatus according to the invention which saves infirst memory means print data which is input via a two-way interface,and converts said print data into the print out information to producethe print output, including inputting said print data with a print IDnumber added via said interface, memorizing said print data in secondmemory means which is different from said first memory means, retrievingcorresponding print data of said second memory means, based on a printID number which is input from the outside, and outputting said retrievedprint data which is converted into the print out information.

[0010] Further, the present invention has preferably said print datawhich is supplied from an audio media such as a compact disk or a videomedia such as a laser disk, or a computer associated media or a digitalinformation media such as a CD-ROM and a CD-I.

[0011] Further, the present invention has preferably said print datawhich is compressed and saved with a print ID number added at a leadersection of said each media in a common recording format and a commoncompressed format, with an area distinguishing/recognizing signal, whichis different from other information signals, inserted at least beforeand after a print data area.

[0012] Further, the invention comprises preferably said second memorymeans which saves said compressed and input print data which is expandedusing means for expanding said compressed print data, wherein said printdata is retrieved from said memory unit B, based on a print ID numberwhich is input, by said retrieving means, and converted into the printout information to obtain the print output.

[0013] Further, the invention comprises preferably said second memorymeans which saves said input print data in compressed state, whereinsaid print data of said second memory means is retrieved by saidretrieving means, based on a print ID number which is input by means forinputting said print ID number, and said print data is expanded usingmeans for expanding compressed print data and converted into the printout information to obtain the print output.

[0014] Further, the invention has preferably the print data of saidsecond memory means which is managed in terms of said print ID number.

[0015] Further, the invention has preferably the print data of saidsecond memory means which is held until a designated instruction isentered.

[0016] In the invention, with the above configuration, the recordingsignal and the audio signal or video signal can be independently dealtwith without confusion, even if data is provided in a media having therecording signal and the audio signal or video signal mixed. Therefore,the linkage or combination of the recording signal and the audio signalor video signal can be implemented.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017]FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the constitution of afirst output apparatus (laser beam printer) to which the invention isapplicable.

[0018]FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the constitution of a secondoutput apparatus (ink jet printer) to which the invention is applicable.

[0019]FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a controlsystem of the second output apparatus as shown in FIG. 2.

[0020]FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a printercontrol system according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0021]FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of a typical operationprocedure of the printer control system according to the embodiment ofthe invention.

[0022]FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of a typical operationprocedure of another printer control system according to anotherembodiment of the invention.

[0023]FIG. 7 is comprised of FIGS. 7A and 7B showing a flowchartillustrating a processing procedure in a system configuration accordingto an embodiment of the invention.

[0024]FIG. 8 is comprised of FIGS. 8A and 8B showing a flowchartillustrating a processing procedure in another system configurationaccording to another embodiment of the invention.

[0025]FIG. 9 is comprised of FIGS. 9A and 9B showing a flowchartillustrating a processing procedure in a further system configurationaccording to another embodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0026] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will bedescribed below with reference to the drawings.

[0027] First, the constitution of a laser beam printer and an ink jetprinter suitable for applying the invention will be described withreference to FIGS. 1 to 3. It should be noted that the printer to applythe invention is not limited to the laser beam printer and the ink jetprinter, but may be printers of other printing system.

[0028]FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing the constitution of afirst output apparatus to which the invention is applicable, forexample, in a case of a laser beam printer (LBP).

[0029] In FIG. 1, 1500 is an LBP for forming the image on a recordingpaper which is a recording medium in such a way as to input and memorizethe print information (character code) or the form information or macroinstruction supplied from a host computer or video recorder connectedexternally, and create corresponding character pattern or form patternin accordance with such information. 1501 is an operation panel havingthe switches for operation and the LED displays arranged thereon, and1000 is a printer control unit for controlling the whole LBP main unit1500 and analyzing the character information supplied from the hostcomputer. This printer control unit 1000 converts the characterinformation into a video signal of corresponding character pattern whichis output to a laser driver 1502. The laser driver 1502 is a circuit fordriving a semiconductor laser 1503, which switches on or off a laserbeam 1504 emitted from the semiconductor laser 1503 in accordance withthe input video signal.

[0030] The laser beam 1504 scans over an electrostatic drum 1506 whilebeing deflected by a rotational polygon mirror 1505 to the left andright. As a result, an electrostatic latent image of character patternis formed on the electrostatic drum 1506. This latent image istransferred onto the recording paper after being developed by adeveloping unit 1507 disposed on the periphery of the electrostatic drum1506. The recording paper used herein is a cut sheet, wherein cut sheetrecording papers are contained within a paper cassette 1508 attached onthe LBP 1500, one recording paper being brought into the apparatus bymeans of a paper supply roller 1509, and paper feed rollers 1510, 1511,and supplied to the electrostatic drum 1506. Also, the LBP main unit1500 is provided with at least one or more card slots, not shown,allowing for the connection of an option font card which is optionallyprovided in addition to a contained font, and a control card (emulationcard) involving a different printer language system.

[0031]FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance andconstitution of a second output apparatus to which the present inventionis applicable, for example, in a case of an ink jet recording apparatus(IJRA).

[0032] In FIG. 2, a carriage HC engaging a helical groove 5004 of a leadscrew 5005 rotating via the driving force transmission gears 5011, 5009,along with the forward or backward rotation of a drive motor 5013, has apin (not shown), and is moved reciprocally in the directions of thearrow a, b. This carriage HC has an ink jet cartridge IJC mountedthereon. 5002 is a paper presser plate for pressing the paper against aplaten 5000 along the carriage moving direction. 5007, 5008 arephoto-couplers for confirming the existence of a carriage lever 5006 inthis region to function as home position sensing means in switching therotation direction of a motor 5013. 5016 is a member for supporting acap member 5022 for capping the entire face of a recording head, and5015 is suction means for sucking the inside of this cap to make asuction recovery of the recording head via a cap inside opening 5023.5017 is a cleaning blade which is movable back and forth by a member5019. 5018 is a main body support plate for supporting 5017, 5019 asabove cited. 5012 is a lever for starting the suction of suctionrecovery, this lever being moved with the movement of a cam 5020 engagedwith the carriage so that the driving force from the drive motor iscontrolled for movement by well-known transmission means such as clutchswitching means.

[0033] These capping, cleaning and suction recovery are configured toperform their desired processings at corresponding locations under theaction of the lead screw 5005, when the carriage comes to an area on thehome position side, but may be configured to perform their desiredoperations at known timings.

[0034]FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the control configurationof the second output apparatus as shown in FIG. 2.

[0035] In FIG. 3, 1700 is a two-way interface for the input of recordingsignal or recording information, 1701 is an MPU, 1702 is a ROM forstoring the control program which the MPU 1701 executes or the hostprint 1 information, and 1703 is a DRAM (dynamic RAM) for storing avariety of kinds of data (the recording signal or recording data to besupplied to the head). 1704 is a gate array for controlling the outputdata supplied to the recording head 1708, as well as controlling thetransfer of data between the two-way interface 1700, the MPU 1701 andthe DRAM 1703. 1710 is a carrier motor for conveying the recording head1708, 1709 is a paper feed motor for feeding the recording paper, 1705is a head driver for driving the recording head, 1706 is a motor driverfor driving the paper feed motor 1709, and 1707 is a motor driver fordriving the carrier motor 1710.

[0036] In the recording apparatus as above constituted, if the inputinformation is passed via the two-way interface 1700 from the hostcomputer 100 or video recorder (not shown), the input information isconverted into the print out information between the gate array 1704 andthe MPU 1701. And while the motor drivers 1706, 1707 are driven, therecording head is driven in accordance with the output information sentto the head driver 1705 for the printing.

[0037] Note that the MPU 1701 can perform the communication processingwith the host computer 100 via the two-way interface 1700, as will bedescribed later, wherein the memory information or resouce dataregarding the DRAM 1703 or the host print information within the ROM1702 can be informed to the host computer, as will be described later.Also, the MPU 1701, when connected via the two-way interface 1700 to thevideo recorder (not shown), can perform the image processing of imageinformation which is entered into the DRAM 1703.

[0038]FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a printercontrol system of the output apparatus in an example of the invention.Herein, a laser beam printer (FIG. 1) is exemplified.

[0039] In FIG. 4, 1500 is a printer main unit. The recording informationfrom the host computer 11 is connected via the two-way interface 12 toan input unit 34 of the printer 1500, and the recording information froman AV (audio visual) device 21 is connected via a one-way interface 22to the input unit 34 of the printer 1500. 32 is a printer CPU(microprocessor) for controlling globally the access to a variety oftypes of devices connecting via a system bus 31, based on the controlprogram stored in a program ROM of a ROM 14 in a group 15, the controlprogram stored in a program ROM of a ROM 24 in a group 25, or thecontrol program stored in an external memory 38, so that the imagesignal as the output information may be output to a printer unit(printer engine) connected via a printer engine interface 35.

[0040] The group 15 is a conventional control unit for controlling theprint output, the program ROM of ROM 14 storing the control program ofthe CPU 32 as shown in a flowchart (b) of FIG. 5. A font ROM 33 storesthe font information (dot font or outline font) for use in creating theoutput information (bit map data), and a data ROM of ROM 14 stores theinformation useful on the host computer, when the printer has noexternal memory 38 such as a hard disk.

[0041] The group 25 is a control unit for controlling the print outputin the example of the invention, the program ROM of ROM 24 storing thecontrol program of CPU 32 as shown in a flowchart (a) of FIG. 5. Thefont ROM 33 stores the font information (dot font or outline font) foruse in creating the output information, and a data ROM of ROM 24 storesthe information useful on the host computer, when the printer has noexternal memory 38 such as a hard disk.

[0042] The CPU 32 can perform the signal processing with the hostcomputer 11 via the input unit 34, wherein the information inside theprinter can be informed to the host computer 11. Note that a RAM-A13 anda RAM-B23 are usable for a print data memory area, an output information(bit map data) development area, an environmental data storing area, andan NVRAM (nonvolatile RAM). Further, the RAM-B23 is provided with anoutput information holding area. The external memory 38 such as a harddisk or an IC memory Is controlled for access by a memory controller(MC) 36. The external memory 38 may be optionally connected to store thefont data, the emulation program, and the form data. Also, 1501 is anoperation panel having the switches for operation and the LED (lightemitting diode) indicators arranged thereon.

[0043] It will be appreciated that the number of external memories asabove mentioned is not limited to only one, as above described, but maybe at least one or more, wherein an option font card provided inaddition to a contained font or a plurality of external memories storingthe programs for interpreting the printer control languages of differentprinter language systems may be connected. Further, an NVRAM, not shown,may be provided to store the printer mode setting information which isinput from the operation panel 1501.

[0044] In the printer control system as above constituted, the flow of atypical processing operation in the example of the invention will bedescribed with reference to a flowchart of FIG. 5. The print data(composed of the character code or the control code) input from the hostcomputer 11 via the two-way interface 12 into the input unit 34 of theprinter 1500 is checked by the CPU 32 to determine whether or not thetop data thereof is a data switch signal (S1). If it is not the dataswitch signal, the print data is passed to the flow (b) which isidentical to the flow of the conventional print output control (S9), andsaved in a print data memory area of RAM-A13 (S10). Then, the print outinformation is generated using the print information (S11), and printed(S12). If it is the data switch signal, the print data is passed to theflow (a) which is the print output flow in the example of the invention.

[0045] The print data following the data switch signal is compressedprint data (S2). The compressed print data is expanded and stretched(S3), and saved in a RAM-B23 which is managed for each print data IDnumber (S4). A print data ID number is input from the host computer 11or the operation unit 1501 (S5), and print data corresponding to itsnumber is retrieved from the print data saved in the RAM-B23 by the CPU32 (S6, S7).

[0046] The retrieved print data is converted into the print outinformation (bit map data) in accordance with the control flow aspreviously described (S8), and sent to the printing unit 37 to obtainthe print output (S12).

[0047] Also, the print data from the AV device 21 via the two-wayinterface 22 into the input unit 34 of the printer 1500 is necessarilypassed to the flow (a) which is a print output flow in the example ofthe invention, without the CPU 32 checking to see whether or not the topdata is a data switch signal. Then, the compressed print data isexpanded and stretched, and saved in a RAM-B23 which is managed for eachprint data ID number. A print data ID number is input from the operationunit 1501, and print data corresponding to its number is retrieved fromthe print data saved in the RAM-B23 by the CPU 32. The retrieved printdata is converted into the print out information in accordance with thecontrol flow as previously described, and sent to the printing unit 37to obtain the print output. Here, print data saved in the RAM-B23 isheld unless new data is input or a delete instruction is inputintentionally.

[0048]FIG. 6 shows a typical flowchart in another example of theinvention. A different point from FIG. 5 is that compressed print datawhich is input from the input unit 34 (S22) is saved in a RAM-B23managed for each print data ID number in compressed state (S23). A printdata ID number is input from the host computer 11 or the operation unit1501 (S24), and print data corresponding to its number is retrieved fromthe print data saved in the RAM-B23 by the CPU 32 (S25, S26).

[0049] The retrieved print data is expanded and stretched (S27),converted into the print out information in accordance with the controlflow as previously described (S28), and sent to the printing unit 37 toobtain the print output (S32). Here, print data saved in the RAM-B23 isheld unless new data is input or a delete instruction is inputintentionally.

[0050]FIGS. 7A and 7B show a detailed processing procedure in theexample of the invention, wherein the a part shows schematically theinformation structure for a compact disk. Print data is compressed andsaved with an ID number added in the leader section of audio data. The bpart, the c part and the d part show schematically the flows of acompact disk player (AV device 21), a printer 1500 according to theinvention, and a host computer 11, respectively.

[0051] First, a compact disk a is set on a compact disk player b (AVdevice 21). Upon starting the compact disk player b, if it is confirmedthat the compact disk a has been newly set (S41), compressed print datain the leader section is transferred to the printer c (printer 1500)(S43). After the end of transfer (S44), audio data is read from thecompact disk a which has been set (S45), converted into analog signal(S46), and output as audio sound through a speaker (S47). Herein, whenthere is no compressed print data in the leader section, audio data isimmediately read, converted into analog signal and output as audio soundthrough the speaker.

[0052] Also, if the compact disk a has been already set (S41), aselection of whether to transfer newly print data to the printer c(printer 1500) can be made (S42). A command for this selection can beentered from the operation panel of the compact disk player b (AV device21).

[0053] The printer c (printer 1500) determines whether or not the inputprint data is sent from the compact disk player b or from the hostcomputer d (S51). After 1 it is determined that the print data is sentfrom the compact disk player b, the input compressed print data isexpanded and stretched (S52, S53), and saved in the memory unit(RAM-B23) (S54). Herein, the listener listening to a music (audio data)of this compact disk a, who wants to obtain the information concerningthe music, for example, a profile of the musician or a sheet of music,must input a prespecified ID number of print data from the operationpanel of the printer main unit c (printer 1500) (S56). The printer mainunit retrieves print data from the print data group within the memoryunit, based on the input ID number (S57, S58), converts this retrievedprint data into the print out information (bit map data) (S59), andoutputs the print (S63). Thereby, the listener can obtain printinformation which is different from audio information to which thelistener is listening with an audio equipment.

[0054] On the other hand, after it is determined that the print data issent from the computer 11, the input print data is saved in the memoryunit (RAM-A13) (S60, S61), converted into the print out information(S62), and output (S63).

[0055]FIGS. 8A and 8B show a detailed processing procedure in anotherexample of the invention, wherein the a part shows schematically theinformation structure of a laser disk. Print data is compressed andsaved with an ID number added in the leader section of video(image)/audio data. The b part, the c part and the d part showschematically the flows of a laser disk player, a printer according tothe invention, and a computer, respectively.

[0056] First, a laser disk a is set on a laser disk player b (AV device21). Upon starting the laser disk player b, if it is confirmed that thelaser disk a has been newly set (S71), compressed print data in theleader section is transferred to the printer c (printer 1500) (S73).After the end of transfer (S74), video/audio data is read (S75),converted into video signal (S76), and output as video/audio through atelevision (S77). Herein, when there is no compressed print data in theleader section, video/audio data is immediately read, converted intovideo signal and output as video/audio through the television. Also, ifthe compact disk a has been already set, a selection of whether totransfer newly print data to the printer c can be made (S72). A commandfor this selection can be entered from the operation panel of the laserdisk player b (AV device 21).

[0057] The printer c determines whether or not the input print data issent from the laser disk player b or from the host computer d (S81).After it is determined that the print data is sent from the laser diskplayer b, the compressed print data is saved in the memory unit(RAM-B23) (S82, S83). Herein, the viewer seeing a video of this laserdisk, who wants to obtain the information concerning this video, forexample, a profile of the actor or actress or film studio information ora scenario, must input a prespecified ID number of print data from theoperation panel of the printer main unit c (S84). In the printer mainunit c, print data is retrieved from the print data group within thememory unit, based on the input ID number (S85, S86), expanded andstretched (S87), converted into print out information (bit map data)(S88), and output (S93). Thereby, the viewer can obtain printinformation which is different from video information which the vieweris seeing on the television.

[0058] On the other hand, after it is determined that the print data isdata from the computer d, the input print data is saved in the memoryunit (RAM-A13) (S90, S91), converted into the print out information(S92), and output (S93).

[0059]FIGS. 9A and 9B show a processing procedure in a third example ofthe invention, wherein the part shows schematically the informationstructure of a CD-ROM. Print data is compressed and stored with an IDnumber added in the leader section of video (image)/audio data. The bpart, the c part and the d part show schematically the flows of a CD-ROMdrive unit, a printer according to the invention, and a host computerconnected to the CD-ROM drive unit, respectively.

[0060] First, a CD-ROM a is set on a CD-ROM drive unit b (AV device 21).Upon starting the CD-ROM drive unit, if it is confirmed that the printeris connected to the host computer d and the power of printer is on(S101), compressed print data in the leader section is transferred viathe host computer d to the printer c. After the end of transfer,video/audio data is read, and transferred to the computer d (S103, S130,S131). Herein, when there is no compressed print data in the leadersection, video/audio data is immediately read, and transferred to thehost computer d.

[0061] The printer c determines by itself whether or not the input printdata is sent from the CD-ROM drive unit b via the host computer or fromthe host computer d (S111). After it is determined that the print datais sent from the CD-ROM drive unit b, the compressed print data is savedin the memory unit (RAM-B23) (S112, S113). Herein, the person playing agame, for example, by controlling or processing the video/audio data onthe host computer d, who wants to obtain the information concerning thisgame, for example, a manual of the game, must input a prespecified IDnumber of print data from the operation panel of the printer main unit cor the host computer d (S105 to S109, S114). Or an ID number of printdata may be interposed intentionally in the video/audio data from theCD-ROM a to input the ID number via the host computer into the printermain unit c. In the printer main unit, print data is retrieved from theprint data group within the memory unit based on the input ID number(S115, S116), expanded and stretched (S117), converted into print outinformation (bit map data) (S118), and output (S122). The operatorworking on the host computer can thereby obtain print information whichis different from image information appearing on the screen of hostcomputer.

[0062] (Others)

[0063] Note that the media for supplying the print data is notlimitative to the compact disk, the laser disk, and the CD-ROM, as abovecited, as far as the present invention can be carried out. Theconnecting relation between the device for driving this media and theprinter or host computer is not limited to those of the above-mentionedexamples, as far as the present invention can be carried out, but may bein a form in which all components are integrated.

[0064] As described above, with the above examples, it is possible toprovide an output apparatus of recording signal and an output method insaid apparatus, which is capable of implementing the linkage orcombination of the recording signal and the audio signal or video signalin such a way that the recording signal and the audio signal or videosignal can be dealt with independently without confusion even if data isprovided in a media where the recording signal and audio signal or videosignal are mixed.

What is claimed is:
 1. An output apparatus which produces the printoutput by saving in first memory means print data which is input via atwo-way interface, and converting said print data into the print outinformation, comprising: second memory means which is different fromsaid first memory means for memorizing said print data with a print IDnumber added which is input via said interface; retrieving means forretrieving corresponding print data of said second memory means, basedon a print ID number which is input from the outside; and output meansfor outputting said retrieved print data which is converted into theprint out information.
 2. An output apparatus according to claim 1 ,wherein said print data is supplied from an audio media such as acompact disk, a video media such as a laser disk, or a computerassociated media or a digital information media such as a CD-ROM and aCD-I.
 3. An output apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said printdata is compressed and stored with a print ID number added in a leadersection of said each media in a common recording format or commoncompression format, and has an area distinguishing/recognizing signalinserted which is different from other information signal at leastbefore and after a print data area.
 4. An output apparatus according toclaim 1 , wherein said second memory means saves said compressed andinput print data which is expanded using means for expanding compressedprint data, wherein said print data of said second memory means isretrieved by said retrieving means, based on said input print ID number,and converted into the print out information to obtain the print output.5. An output apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein said second memorymeans saves said input print data in compressed state, wherein saidprint data of said second memory means is retrieved by said retrievingmeans based on said input print ID number, expanded using means forexpanding compressed print data, and converted into the print outinformation to obtain the print output.
 6. An output apparatus accordingto claim 1 , wherein the print data of said second memory means ismanaged by said print ID number.
 7. An output apparatus according toclaim 1 , wherein the print data of said second memory means is helduntil a designated instruction is entered.
 8. An output method of anoutput apparatus which produces the print output by saving in firstmemory means print data which is input via a two-way interface, andconverting said print data into the print out information, comprisingthe steps of: inputting print data with a print ID number added via saidinterface; memorizing said print data in second memory means which isdifferent from said first memory means; retrieving corresponding printdata of said second memory means based on a print ID number which isinput from the outside; and outputting said retrieved print data whichis converted into the print out information.
 9. An output methodaccording to claim 8 , wherein said print data is supplied from an audiomedia such as a compact disk, a video media such as a laser disk, or acomputer associated media or a digital information media such as aCD-ROM and a CD-I.
 10. An output method according to cliam 8, whereinsaid print data is compressed and saved with a print ID number added ina leader section of said each media in a common recording format orcommon compression format, and has an area distinguishing/recognizingsignal inserted which is different from other information signal atleast before and after a print data area.
 11. An output method accordingto claim 8 , wherein said second memory means saves said compressed andinput print data which is expanded using means for expanding compressedprint data, wherein said print data of said second memory means isretrieved with said retrieving procedure, based on said input print IDnumber, and converted into the print out information to obtain the printoutput.
 12. An output method according to claim 8 , wherein said secondmemory means saves said input print data in compressed state, whereinsaid print data of said second memory means is retrieved with saidretrieving procedure, based on the print ID number input, and saidcompressed print data is expanded using means for expanding compressedprint data, and converted into the print out information to obtain theprint output.
 13. An output method according to claim 8 , wherein theprint data of said second memory means is managed by said print IDnumber.
 14. An output method according to claim 8 , wherein the printdata of said second memory means is held until a designated instructionis entered.